Looking for a low-carb appetizer that’s a hit at any summer gathering? This Keto Shrimp & Cucumber Appetizer is light, refreshing, and has just a hint of heat. With cool, crisp cucumber and a touch of chili pepper, it’s an easy, delicious starter for hot summer nights or a quick weekend get-together.
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Shrimp Preparation Tips
No need to buy fresh shrimp—frozen shrimp work great and can be stored for 4 to 6 months in your freezer. Look for bags labeled IQF (Individually Quick Frozen) for the best quality. To thaw frozen shrimp, simply place them in the refrigerator overnight.
Preparing shrimp may seem tricky, but it’s easy once you get the hang of it. Here are a few tips if you’re up for the task:
- Use kitchen shears to cut through the shell from head to tail, making it easy to peel by hand.
- To devein, make a shallow cut along the back to expose the vein, which you can remove with a knife tip or toothpick.
- Keep peeled shrimp in a bowl of ice water to stay fresh while prepping.
Make-Ahead Tips
Healthy and easy, this recipe is ideal for entertaining since you can prep the ingredients ahead:
- Store sliced cucumbers in an airtight container for up to 3 days.
- Cooked shrimp can also be stored in the fridge, tightly wrapped, for up to 3 days.
- Prepare the sauce the night before to allow flavors to meld together—this adds a flavor boost!
When ready to serve, just assemble, which takes about 10 minutes.
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Recipe Variations
Add a twist to make this recipe your own:
- Tex-Mex Style: Add 2 tablespoons of finely chopped cilantro and a squeeze of lime to the sauce.
- Asian-Inspired: Add ¼ teaspoon of ginger paste, 1 tablespoon of gluten-free tamari, and swap the olive oil for sesame oil.
Ingredients
- 2 cucumbers, each cut into 5 sections (about 1.5 inches each)
- 12 shrimp, boiled
- ¼ onion, diced
- 1 chili pepper, deseeded and diced
- 1 tomato, diced
- Salt and pepper, to taste
- 3 tablespoons (45 ml) olive oil, for drizzling
Instructions
- Score the top of each cucumber section into 8 parts, creating a small pocket for the sauce and shrimp.
- In a small bowl, mix together the onion, chili pepper, tomato, salt, and pepper to make the sauce.
- Spoon a bit of the sauce onto each cucumber piece.
- Place a shrimp on each cucumber section and drizzle with olive oil.
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FAQ
- Can I use fresh shrimp instead of frozen?
Absolutely! Fresh shrimp work just as well. If you’re using fresh, make sure they’re properly cleaned and deveined. Frozen shrimp are a convenient, budget-friendly alternative and are easy to store for longer periods. - How do I thaw frozen shrimp safely?
The best way to thaw frozen shrimp is to place them in the refrigerator overnight. If you’re in a hurry, you can also place them in a bowl of cold water for about 15-20 minutes until thawed. - Can I make this recipe in advance?
Yes! This recipe is very make-ahead friendly. Prep the cucumber, shrimp, and sauce separately up to a day ahead and store in the refrigerator. Assemble right before serving for the freshest flavor. - How long will leftovers keep in the refrigerator?
Leftovers will stay fresh for about 2 days when stored in an airtight container in the refrigerator. However, they’re best enjoyed fresh, as cucumbers may lose some crunch over time. - Can I adjust the spice level?
Of course! To make it milder, use a smaller amount of chili pepper or omit it entirely. If you want more heat, add extra diced chili or even a dash of hot sauce to the sauce mixture. - Can I use other veggies instead of cucumber?
Yes, thinly sliced zucchini or bell pepper rounds make great low-carb substitutes if you prefer a different flavor or texture. Just ensure they’re sturdy enough to hold the shrimp and sauce. - Are there any variations for the sauce?
Definitely! You can personalize the sauce with different flavors:
- For a Tex-Mex flavor: Add cilantro and lime juice.
- For an Asian twist: Add a touch of ginger paste, tamari sauce, and replace olive oil with sesame oil.
- Do I have to cook the shrimp myself?
No, pre-cooked shrimp will work fine and can save time. Just make sure they’re thawed and patted dry before assembling. - How do I keep the shrimp and cucumber fresh during prep?
Keep shrimp in a bowl of ice water if preparing them in advance. Sliced cucumbers can be stored in an airtight container with a paper towel to absorb moisture, which will help maintain their crispness. - Can I use other types of oil?
Certainly! While olive oil adds a mild, fresh taste, you can also try avocado oil or sesame oil for different flavor profiles.
Enjoy this Keto Shrimp & Cucumber Appetizer for a light, flavorful bite that’s perfect for summer gatherings!
